Feargal Quinn (Independent) | Oireachtas source

I will speak to the section. Section 27 undermines the powers of inspectors in that it prohibits inspectors using any statements provided by the employer during the inspection. It states, "A statement or admission made by a person pursuant to a requirement under subsection (1)(d) or (f) shall not be admissible as evidence in proceedings brought against the person for an offence (other than an offence under subsection (5))." The Migrant Rights Centre of Ireland has drawn attention to this issue and pointed out that labour inspectors currently issue a caution if, in their view, the inspection may result in a prosecution. This is similar to the approach of the Revenue Commissioners. The centre argues that the watering down of the powers of inspectors to prosecute cases is a worrying development. What I suggest purely aims to ensure that statements made subsequent to the employer being given a caution would be admissible as evidence. It would be fair and reasonable. Our straightforward amendment should have been accepted.